IOWA CITY, Iowa — In a thrilling finish on Sunday, Elina Aarnisalo converted two free throws with just 3.8 seconds on the clock, leading No. 3 UCLA to a dramatic 67-65 comeback victory against Iowa.
The Bruins’ Lauren Betts was a standout performer, registering 22 points and 12 rebounds, helping UCLA (26-1, 14-1 Big Ten) overcome a 12-point deficit on two occasions during the third quarter.
Iowa managed to level the score at 65 thanks to Lucy Olsen, who hit three free throws with only 6 seconds remaining. However, Aarnisalo was fouled when tripped by Olsen while attempting to defend, setting up her clutch free throw opportunity. The Hawkeyes aimed for a last-gasp effort to either equalize or secure a win, but Addison O’Grady’s three-point shot fell short, sealing UCLA’s triumphant outcome.
Kiki Rice contributed 12 points for the Bruins, showcasing the team’s depth. Meanwhile, Olsen led Iowa (18-9, 8-8) with 17 points, while teammates Hannah Stuelke added 11, and both O’Grady and Taylor McCabe chipped in with 10 points apiece.
In terms of performance, UCLA overcame an initial struggle with foul trouble for Betts, who had to sit out the latter part of the first half after receiving her second foul with 4:26 left in the second quarter. Despite their struggles beyond the arc, shooting just 5 of 25 on three-pointers, Rice netted a crucial three-pointer with 2:19 left in the game that put UCLA ahead 62-60, a lead they would maintain until the final buzzer.
Iowa was looking to upset yet another highly-ranked opponent after taking down No. 4 USC earlier this month, but despite their late-game chances, they couldn’t convert crucial opportunities. Olsen led the team in scoring, though her shooting accuracy was a challenge at just 5 of 21.
A pivotal moment came when UCLA initiated a 16-4 run during the final 5½ minutes of the third quarter, tying the game at 50. This run commenced with a three-pointer from Angela Dugalic, marking only the Bruins’ second successful three-pointer at that point in the game.
Statistically, UCLA came into the game leading the nation in rebound margin at plus-14.2, and they asserted their dominance on the boards overall by outrebounding Iowa 43-34, including a 25-11 advantage in the second half.
Looking ahead, UCLA will be facing Wisconsin on Wednesday, while Iowa is scheduled to play Michigan on the same day.
